Kissimmee, Fla., Apr 6, 2004 / 12:00 am (CNA).- Spring training has been more a little more than just playing ball for some major league baseball teams. Convinced that “The Passion of the Christ” is a great outreach tool, some Christian players arranged for their teammates to see the film by renting out a movie theater or by handing out free tickets, and the response has been positive, reported the Baptist Press.

New York Mets pitcher Braden Looper had organized a screening and about 50 players and their wives showed up. Other players, such as Mike Matheny of the St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz, did the same.

Methany invited his teammates, as well as the minor leaguers and their wives.

“We have Bible studies, and I think this is going to be a good first study and kind of open the doors to everybody,” he reportedly said.

Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane, a Southern Baptist deacon, wanted his players to see the movie, but he also knew that his involvement might keep some players away. So, he enlisted the help of outfielder Lance Berkman.

The players attended and the movie was “a hot topic of conversation in the locker room” for a couple of days afterward, Berkman reportedly said.